Much Needed Vacation

Finally...a family vacation. Usually, we just take "facations"-you know, the vacation to go see family (not that we don't love our families, but a true vacation was needed!!). We decided to take a chance and go to Disneyland. We weren't sure how the kids would do...can I just say...BEST VACATION EVER!! We really had the BEST time, and didn't want to come home. This was the first day, waiting for our shuttle bus to take us to Disney. The kids were so excited.
The obligatory castle picture.
Ashton's first ride was the Carousel. The grin says it all.
It's not what you think. Ashton was sad because she wanted to ride by herself in a pink Dumbo. (You had to be 7 to ride by yourself....try telling that to your stubborn 3 going on 13 year old).
So fun. The kids got to meet Mickey Mouse. Amazingly, the lines were so short...we only waited 15 minutes. Ashton was hilarious. She had to wear her "1st time to Disneyland pin" for Mickey. Mickey was great. The kids were laughing so hard because he gave Jackson a "high five" and kissed Ashton.

They also got to meet Goofy.

While I was waiting with Ashton in the "princess" line for 75 minutes, I wasn't sure if this would be worth it....It was! Ashton got to meet Mulan, Cinderella and Tiana. It was absolutely magical!

Ashton and Cinderella.

And her favorite, Tiana.

After Pirates of the Caribbean ride...Arrrrrr Maties!

Meeting Mater and Lightning McQueen.

Another Mickey meeting. So fun!

Daddy and the kids riding the Carousel.

California Adventures!!! SEA WORLD. The kids LOVED this. They saw penquins, Shamu, dolphins, sea lions, lots of fish, polar bears, and various other marine life.

The Shamu show. They LOVED this. Jackson was sad that he didn't get "splashed"...although something tells me that if he had gotten wet...he wouldn't have been too happy!

And one of the best days....Coronado Beach. The kids LOVED the beach and did not want to leave. It was amazing.

This is the LIFE!

Ashton was running from the waves. So cute!!

Yes, definitely the life. We really had such a great vacation. It was so fun to be together, and it was great to drive through Brent's mission areas....especially Laguna Beach. The only bad thing...it had to end. Here's to the family vacation!!!